Last Updated on February 12, 2021 by Jeff
Let’s Get Started:
Note, as this cycle is discontinued, we recommend looking at the NordicTrack S15i Studio Cycle. Click here for our full review.
The NordicTrack GX 3.5 Sport is an indoor cycle trainer that replicates the feel of road cycling and offers a great workout to match. The most notable features on the GX 3.5 Sport include the heavy, 40-pound flywheel, toe-cage pedals, adjustable handlebar grips and saddle, and a chain drive resistance system to help provide a quiet and smooth riding experience. With a chain drive system you can generally expect a higher life expectancy and less likelihood of needing maintenance. The GX 3.5 Sport is also portable and comes with built-in wheels to quickly stowaway the bike or move it into another room.
Although the GX 3.5 lacks an entertainment and programmed workout console, this is a common characteristic of many indoor cycle and Spin bike models. Despite the lack of preset workouts, this indoor cycling model remains a popular value buy in the market. Overall, the GX 3.5 Sport offers a realistic, outdoor biking experience, and with loads of adjustable features, its easily customizable. It also has a relatively heavy flywheel at 40 pounds when you compare it to a commercial gym bike, which usually have around 48-pound flywheels.
Technical Info:
Dimensions:
- Height: 39”
- Width: 18.5”
- Length: 49”
- Item weight: Not Available
- Max user weight: 250 lbs
Computer Features:
- Backlit LCD display helps you keep track of your speed, time, distance, pulse and calories burned in order to gauge the intensity of your workout and see your progress in live time
- Manual resistance is easily adjusted using a knob in order to increase or decrease intensity during your workout
- Innovative braking system allows you to quickly and safely start and stop your workout as needed
Warranty:
- Frame: Lifetime
- Parts & Labor: 90 days
- NordicTrack also provides a 30-day money back guarantee
Shipping and Assembly:
- Shipping is free for the GX 3.5 Sport on the NordicTrack website (here).
- The GX 3.5 Sport can easily be assembled at home using the provided instructions.
What We Love About the NordicTrack GX 3.5 Sport Indoor Cycle:
Heavy Flywheel
The NordicTrack GX 3.5 Sport comes with a heavy and powerful 40-pound flywheel, or anchor, which helps to make your ride feel natural and smooth. The heavier flywheel is also the hallmark of a quality indoor bike, as it allows trainees to train at high intensities safely and effectively. Additionally, instead of a belt drive system, the GX 3.5 Sport has a chain drive system, for which you can expect a higher life expectancy and less maintenance in general. The combination of these design choices also lends itself to a quieter ride, so you don’t have to worry about making a ruckus.
Realistic & Adjustable Experience
The NordicTrack GX 3.5 Sport is a versatile bike that comes with many adjustable features: You’ll be able to adjust the saddle both vertically and horizontally, the handlebars to accommodate your height, the resistance to your desired level of intensity, and the toe straps to stay secure on your feet within the toe cages. The GX 3.5 Sport is designed to feel just like a road bike thanks to its quick-stop braking, chain drive resistance system, and resistance knob. The only non-adjustable feature to consider is the seat, which may be uncomfortably hard for some. If you experience discomfort, however, there are many seat cushions that can be bought to improve the overall experience of using the seat.
Other Considerations:
Entertainment + Console
If the NordicTrack GX 3.5 Sport lacks in any area it might be in the entertainment department. The GX 3.5 has no built-in workout apps, or entertainment console, and also does not have iFit Coach compatibility, a tablet holder, or touchscreen technology. For avid cyclers who only need see their stats, this may not be important, and it’s not that unusual on indoor cycles and Spin bikes like this one. However, for those looking for a bit more to keep them engaged and busy, an indoor bike or upright bike with a more juicy entertainment package may be more appealing. If you’re just here to get an intense workout, you’ll be just fine.
Warranty
The GX 3.5 Sport has a warranty that’s 90 days for labor and parts, but that should be plenty of time to see if there’s anything wrong with the bike. While the frame has a lifetime warranty, it’s made of steel and will likely never need any maintenance in that area.
Final Word on the NordicTrack GX 3.5 Sport Indoor Bike:
The NordicTrack GX 3.5 Sport indoor bike is a straight forward value purchase for the many customizable and adjustable options, its resemblance to outdoor biking, and its and heavy flywheel, which all contribute to a smooth and pleasurable workout. For these reasons, the GX 3.5 Sport can be a great fit for families accommodating different heights, for trainees looking for low-impact yet effective workouts, as well as for those who are shopping on a budget. The NordicTrack GX 3.5 Sport indoor cycle is an excellent model built with a sturdy, steel frame, and while the entertainment and console features aren’t the latest on the market, the overall comfort, design, and functionality of the bike are strong reasons to consider purchasing. Rating: 88/100.
